Foreign Interference
Foreign interference occurs when activities are carried out by, or on behalf of a foreign actor, which are coercive, clandestine, deceptive or corrupting and are contrary to Australia’s sovereignty, values and national interests. In a university context, foreign interference may appear in the form of undue influence over campus activities, disruptions to academic freedom of expression, harassment, intimidation, monitoring of staff and students, and facilitation of unwanted technology transfer.
To safeguard our students, personnel, academics, and intellectual property, Curtin has partnered with government organisations to implement proactive measures. These developments are in place to ensure the security and wellbeing of everyone at the University, uphold the principles of academic freedom, and support the free exchange of ideas to make tomorrow better.
Please familiarise yourself with the key indicators of foreign interference, and reach out for support if you have any questions. If you or anyone you know might be at risk, we encourage you to submit a report or discuss your concerns with us.
Reports will remain confidential and can be made anonymously.
Submit a report
You can submit a report directly to Curtin’s Foreign Interference department.
Discuss your concerns
Talk directly to someone in more detail about foreign government harassment.
Mental health and wellbeing support
If you’re seeking support, reach out to Curtin’s Student Wellbeing Advisory Service.
What to watch for
Possible actions that may be inconsistent with Curtin’s and Australia’s academic freedoms and values may include those listed below.
Where such actions may have been carried out by, or on behalf of a foreign state actor, the examples could constitute foreign interference, and should be reported to Curtin and relevant federal authorities.
If you ever feel physically threatened, contact Curtin security.